Joel “Deano” Valdez, 36, of Coyote, New Mexico, passed away on September 19, 2025. He was the devoted husband to his high school sweetheart, Victoria “Vikki” Valdez, with whom he shared 15 beautiful years of marriage. 

Deano was born in Española, New Mexico, and raised in the small town of Coyote. He was the son of Dean Valdez and Julie Valdez.  

An avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman, Deano found peace and joy in the mountains. He loved driving through the countryside and hiking the family property, where he built a life with his wife and their three children. He took great pride in teaching his sons the values of country living—cattle ranching, fixing fences, chopping wood, and the many responsibilities that come with farm life. A hardworking and dependable man, Deano was always there for others, especially in their time of need. 

Growing up, Deano had a lively and playful personality. He was known as a prankster who loved teasing and joking with family and friends, always aiming to get a laugh. Though he could be shy and reserved, those who knew him well saw his true self—full of warmth, humor, and a love for life.  

After high school he went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps for four years, attaining the rank of Corporal. He completed basic training in 2010, graduating with honors, and served two combat tours in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. His service was recognized with numerous medals and commendations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2), Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal (W/1 Star), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2), NATO Medal- ISAF Afghanistan, Meritorious Mast, and Expert Rifle Qualification Badge (2).

Following his military service, Deano returned home to Coyote, where he pursued a career as a lineman. He earned his journeyman qualifications and worked throughout New Mexico, also traveling to assist with disaster response efforts in several other states.  

Deano is survived by his loving wife, Victoria “Vikki” Valdez; his children, Troy, Caleb, and Ava Valdez; his father, Dean Valdez (Margarita); and his mother, Julie Valdez (Pedro). He is also survived by his grandparents, Leandro and Vangie Valdez, and his grandfather, Herman Jacquez; his siblings, Miguel Valdez and Amanda Valdez; his in-laws Felix Garcia (Vickie) and Nadine Cordova; his brothers-in-law, Adam Garcia (Stephanie), Joshua Henderson (Jaclyn), and Royce “Mossi” Gutierrez; and his sisters-in-law, Alejandra Garcia, Alexis Henderson, and Anita Manzanares. He is also survived by his extended family: Manuel Valdez (Sandra), Addie Montoya (Pablo), Connie Garcia (Richard), Mark Valdez (Elaine), Liane Martinez (Ricky), Jeffery Jacquez, and Joyce Jacquez, along with many other relatives who loved and cherished him.  

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Polly Jacquez. 

A funeral service will take place on Saturday May 9, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Leopards Den, (1903 State Highway 96 Gallina NM 87017). A private burial will take place following the services. A meal will take place immediately following the funeral services at the Gomez Gym.

Pallbearers will be Troy Valdez, Adam Martinez, Daniel Trujillo, Serafin “JR” Vigil, Esteban “Squirt” Archuleta, and Felix Archuleta. Honorary pallbearers will be Marley Arellano and Richard Garcia III.  

Deano’s legacy of hard work, compassion, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.  To everyone who dedicated their time and effort to the search for Deano, you are held in our deepest regard. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering hard work and commitment to bringing him home. Thank you.

The family of Joel "Deano" Valdez has entusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home of the Espanola Valley 505-747-7477.